Remote control method for washing machine

ABSTRACT

A remote control method for a washing machine includes the following steps: establishing, between a mobile terminal and the washing machine, a control channel used to transmit a control instruction and a status feedback channel used to transmit a working status of the washing machine; obtaining status information of the washing machine; and when the status information does not match preset information by which the mobile terminal remotely controls the washing machine, cutting off the control channel, and maintaining the status feedback channel. When the washing machine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal, corresponding state conditions are controlled in a centralized manner, preset information by which the mobile terminal is allowed to remotely control the washing machine is formed, and then it is determined whether real-time status information of the washing machine matches the preset information, so that safety of the remote control method is improved.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the field of washing machines, andparticularly relates to a remote control method for a washing machine.

BACKGROUND

Being a common household appliance in people's life, a washing machinebrings great convenience to people's life. With increasing developmentof the society, people's requirement on life quality is becoming higher.Therefore, a control requirement on the washing machine is becoming moreintelligent and humanized.

With the development of the Internet of Things technology, the Internetof Things technology has been changing our lifestyle and consumptionhabits. The development of an Internet-of-things washing machine is alsoquite rapid, and the application of the Internet-of-things washingsystem is unprecedentedly extensive. At present, the Internet-of-thingswashing machine can achieve remote control of the washing machine byusing a computer, a mobile terminal and other sensing devices, and canfurther enable a user to query a working status of the washing machinein real time.

However, in the process of remote control, it is impossible to fullyunderstand the conditions around the washing machine and the use ofother people in the home, and then realize the remote control of thewashing machine through the mobile terminal, there will be some hiddendangers, leading to safety accidents.

In view of this, the present disclosure is provided.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure aims to overcome a defect of the prior art, andprovides a remote control method for a washing machine. The remotecontrol method for a washing machine is mainly characterized in thatwhen the washing machine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal,corresponding state conditions are controlled in a centralized manner,preset information by which the mobile terminal is allowed to remotelycontrol the washing machine is formed, and then it is determined whetherreal-time status information of the washing machine matches the presetinformation, so that safety of the remote control method is improved.

To achieve the foregoing objective, the present disclosure uses thefollowing technical solution: in a remote control method for a washingmachine, a washing machine and a mobile terminal in wireless connectionwith the washing machine are used, and the remote control methodincludes the following steps: establishing, between the mobile terminaland the washing machine, a control channel used to transmit a controlinstruction and a status feedback channel used to transmit a workingstatus of the washing machine; obtaining status information of thewashing machine; and when the status information does not match presetinformation by which the mobile terminal remotely controls the washingmachine, cutting off the control channel, and maintaining the statusfeedback channel.

Further, the status information includes one or a combination of statusinformation of each device of the washing machine, door bodyinformation, running status information of the washing machine, powergrid information, and water supply information.

Preferentially, the status information of each device of the washingmachine includes status information of a motor, and/or statusinformation of a drying device.

Further, the remote control method includes the following steps:

S401: establishing a control channel and a status feedback channel thatare between the mobile terminal and the washing machine;

S402: obtaining status information of the washing machine; and

S403: determining whether the status information matches the presetinformation by which the mobile terminal remotely controls the washingmachine; and if yes, maintaining the control channel and the statusfeedback channel; and if not, cutting off the control channel, andmaintain the status feedback channel.

Further, the step S401 of establishing a control channel and a statusfeedback channel that are between the mobile terminal and the washingmachine includes the following steps:

S411: initiating an APP on a mobile terminal, and establishing thestatus feedback channel;

S412: sending, by the mobile terminal, a control request to the washingmachine; and

S413: determining whether an activation key disposed on the washingmachine is activated; and if yes, performing a next step; and if not,indicating that remote control authorization fails.

Further, the step S403 of determining whether the status informationmatches the preset information by which the mobile terminal remotelycontrols the washing machine includes the following steps:

S431: detecting whether the door body of the washing machine is locked;and if not, cutting off the control channel, and maintaining the statusfeedback channel; and if yes, maintaining the control channel and thestatus feedback channel, and then performing S432; and

S432: obtaining status information of a motor of the washing machine,and determining whether the motor of the washing machine runs normally;and if not, cutting off the control channel, and maintaining the statusfeedback channel; and if yes, maintaining the control channel and thestatus feedback channel, and then performing a next step.

Further, before step S432, or after it is determined in step S432 thatthe motor of the washing machine runs normally, the method furtherincludes S433: obtaining status information of a drying device of thewashing machine, and determining whether the drying device runsnormally; and if not, cutting off the control channel, and maintainingthe status feedback channel; and if yes, maintaining the control channeland the status feedback channel, and then performing the next step.

Further, after it is determined in step S403 that the status informationmatches the preset information by which the mobile terminal remotelycontrols the washing machine, the method further includes S404:obtaining a control instruction sent by the mobile terminal to thewashing machine.

Further, after step S404, the method further includes S405: determiningwhether the control instruction matches the status information; and ifyes, maintaining the control channel and the status feedback channel,and then performing a next step; and if not, cutting off the controlchannel, and maintain the status feedback channel.

Further, in step S405, the method includes the following steps:

S451: determining whether the control instruction is a washing program;and if yes, performing S452; and if not, performing a next step;

S452: obtaining water supply information, and determining whether awater supply is cut off; and if yes, cutting off the control channel,and maintaining the status feedback channel; and if not, maintaining thecontrol channel and the status feedback channel, and then performingS453; and

S453: obtaining power grid information, and determining whether thecontrol instruction is an energy-saving mode; and if yes, obtaining awashing time corresponding to each washing phase of the washing programbased on the power grid information; and if not, maintaining the controlchannel and the status feedback channel, and operating the washingprogram normally, wherein

preferentially, the power grid information includes a step tariff andpower consumption trend information.

Further, after the control channel is cut off in the remote controlmethod, establishing a control channel between the mobile terminal andthe washing machine again is not allowed.

After the foregoing technical solution is used, the present disclosurehas the following beneficial effects when being compared with the priorart:

The remote control method in the present disclosure mainly aims to avoidsuch a case that when mobile terminal remotely controls the washingmachine, the status information of the washing machine cannot beobtained accurately due to a too long distance, and consequently, thecontrol instruction sent by the mobile terminal cannot be executed, orthe mobile terminal operates the washing machine in error. Therefore,according to the remote control method in the present disclosure, whenthe washing machine that can be remotely operated by the mobile terminalis disposed, status conditions corresponding to the washing machine arecentralized, and then preset information by which the mobile terminalremotely controls washing machine is formed accordingly. In addition, itis determined whether real-time status information of the washingmachine matches the preset information, and if the real-time statusinformation of the washing machine matches the preset information, themobile terminal remotely controls the washing machine, so that safety ofthe remote control method is improved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a structural diagram of an operation panel of a washingmachine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a partial structural diagram of an operation panel of awashing machine according to another embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3 is a cross section chart of A-A in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is another partial structural diagram of an operation panelaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a remote control method according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure.

In the figures: 1: Operation panel; 2: Activation key; 3: Accommodatingcavity; 4: Key slot; 5: First clamping hole; 6: First clamping jaw; 7:Second clamping hole; 8: Second clamping jaw; 9: Groove; 10: Firstbevel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

To make the foregoing objectives, features, and advantages of thepresent disclosure clearer and easier to understand, the presentdisclosure is further described in detail below with the accompanyingdrawings and specific implementations.

Embodiment 1

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, the present disclosure provides a remotecontrol system for a washing machine, a washing machine and anintelligent terminal are included, wherein a detachable activationdevice is disposed on the washing machine, and by using the activationdevice, the washing machine authorizes the intelligent terminal toremotely control the washing machine or prohibits the intelligentterminal from remotely controlling the washing machine.

In the present disclosure, the activation device is disposed on thewashing machine, or is disposed within a range around the washingmachine. When the washing machine needs to be remotely controlled, aperson who controls the washing machine in advance can be authorized toremotely control the washing machine only when the person or anotherperson is in front of or near the washing machine and triggers theactivation device. In other words, to remotely control the washingmachine, there should be a person near the washing machine to activatethe activation device, so that safety check is performed before thewashing machine is forced to be remotely controlled. Therefore, safetyin remotely controlling the washing machine is improved.

In this embodiment, the activation device includes a near-fieldrecognition unit. When the intelligent terminal is within therecognition range of the near-field recognition unit, the washingmachine authorizes the intelligent terminal to remotely control thewashing machine.

Specifically, the activation device includes an NFC card reader, and anNFC tag is disposed on the intelligent terminal. After the NFC tag is ina reading range of the NFC card reader, if the NFC card reader is in atriggered state, the washing machine authorizes the intelligent terminalto remotely control the washing machine. Certainly, in the presentdisclosure, the activation device is not limited to the NFC technology.Alternatively, an RFID card reader is disposed on the washing machine,and an RFID tag is disposed on the mobile terminal. A specific principleis the same as that described in the foregoing, and details are notdescribed herein again. Certainly, the NFC card reader may alternativelybe disposed on the washing machine.

Preferentially, a controller of the washing machine is communicativelyconnected to the NFC card reader, and the controller periodicallydetects a triggering unit. If the triggering unit is in a triggeredstate, the controller authorizes the intelligent terminal to remotelycontrol the washing machine.

Preferentially, the activation device includes an activation key 2, thewashing machine includes has a controller, the activation key 2 isconnected to the controller in a wired or wireless manner, theactivation key 2 includes a communication module configured to becommunicatively connected to the controller and a detection moduleconfigured to detect whether the key is triggered. When the detectionmodule detects that the activation key 2 is triggered, a signal is sentto the controller through the communication module. After receiving thesignal, the controller authorizes the intelligent terminal to remotelycontrol the washing machine.

In this embodiment, the washing machine includes a controller, theactivation device includes an activation key 2 disposed on a box body ofthe washing machine, and the activation key 2 is communicativelyconnected to the controller of the washing machine. If the activationkey 2 is triggered, the controller of the washing machine authorizes theintelligent terminal to remotely control the washing machine. In orderto avoid misoperation such as misoperation by a child, a box body thatcan be opened and closed is disposed on the washing machine, and theactivation key 2 may be placed in the box body, so as to effectivelyavoid child's misoperation. Further, the box body can be locked by adoor lock.

Preferentially, the remote control system for a washing machine in thepresent disclosure further includes a cloud server. The cloud server isin network connection with the controller and the intelligent terminal,and is configured to receive washing information that is of the washingmachine and that is sent by the controller, send the washing informationto the intelligent terminal, receive control information sent by theintelligent terminal, and send the control information to thecontroller.

Preferentially, a first channel used by the intelligent terminal toreceive status information of the washing machine and a second channelused by the washing machine to receive a control instruction sent by theintelligent terminal are established between the intelligent terminaland the controller of the washing machine. When the washing machine andthe intelligent terminal are connected to a network separately, thefirst channel is in a connected state. When the activation device is ina triggered state, the second channel is in a connected state. When theactivation device is in a frozen state, the second channel is in aclosed state. It should be noted that, in the present disclosure,activation of the activation key 2 is implemented by pressing down thekey, and freezing of the activation key 2 is also implemented bypressing down the key. When the activation key 2 is in an activatedstate, the activation key 2 changes into a frozen state by pressing downthe key, and vice versa.

Preferentially, there are a plurality of intelligent terminals. Theintelligent terminals are in network connection with the washing machinethrough the first channel separately. When a second channel between anyintelligent terminal and the washing machine is through, the controllercontrols second channels between the other intelligent terminals and thewashing machine to be in a closed state.

Preferentially, the activation key 2 is detachably disposed on the boxbody of the washing machine, a power supply module is also disposed inthe activation key 2, the power supply module provides power requiredfor signal transmission of the communication module, and the powersupply module includes an energy conversion module and/or a built-inpower supply.

The energy conversion module converts kinetic energy generated in aprocess of pressing the activation key 2 into electric energy andsupplies the electric energy to the communication module.

Further, the washing machine further includes an operation paneldisposed on the box body of the washing machine. An accommodating cavityis formed in the operation panel. The activation key 2 is detachablydisposed in the accommodating cavity. Preferentially, the accommodatingcavity includes a key slot and a connection part disposed at theinternal periphery of the accommodating cavity. The activation key 2 isfixedly connected with the connection part.

Further, at least one clamping hole is formed in the connection part. Aclamping jaw matching the clamping hole is disposed on the activationkey 2. The clamping jaw is clamped into the clamping hole. The clampinghole prevents the activation key 2 from departing from the key slot.

Alternatively, the activation key 2 is fixed in the accommodating cavitythrough magnetic adsorption. When the activation key 2 is fixed in theaccommodating cavity through magnetic adsorption, the activation key 2is more convenient to take and place.

Preferentially, a power supply electrode is disposed in theaccommodating cavity/key slot. Correspondingly, a charging electrode isdisposed on the activation key 2. When the activation key 2 is placed inthe key slot, the power supply electrode is in contact with the chargingelectrode, and the washing machine charges the activation key 2.

There is at least one activation key 2 in the present disclosure. Eachactivation key 2 may be configured to authorize a different intelligentterminal to control the washing machine.

For details about an assembly structure between the activation key 2 andthe washing machine, refer to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4. At least one activationkey 2 is detachably disposed on the main body of the washing machine.

Further, the washing machine further includes an operation panel 1disposed on the main body of the washing machine. At least oneaccommodating cavity 3 is formed in the operation panel 1. At least onedetachable activation key 2 is disposed in the accommodating cavity 3.

In this embodiment, the washing machine includes the operation panel 1.The operation panel 1 is provided with a display function area, aparameter adjustment area, and a function control area.

The display function area is used to display, in real time, specifiedwashing parameters of the washing machine and washing parameters in arunning process of the washing machine.

Parameter adjustment keys and corresponding washing parameters relatedto a washing program are disposed in the parameter adjustment area.

The activation key 2 is disposed in the function control area andcontrols the work of the washing machine.

In this embodiment, the function control area includes at least oneactivation key 2. At least one accommodating cavity 3 is formed in theoperation panel 1. The detachable activation key 2 is disposed in theaccommodating cavity 3. Alternatively, a plurality of accommodatingcavities 3 are formed in the operation panel 1, and are uniformlydistributed on the operation panel 1. In addition, there are a pluralityof activation keys 2 corresponding to the accommodating cavities 3respectively. Moreover, function names are printed on the activationkeys 2, such as “activation key”, to facilitate a user to control thework of the washing machine.

Therefore, in one aspect, the washing machine in this embodiment canprevent children from accidentally touching a key and consequentlyauthorizing an improper intelligent terminal to control the washingmachine, so as to prevent safety accidents.

In another aspect, the activation keys 2 can alternatively be disposedat other positions, to prevent other people from deliberately operatingthe activation keys 2 and consequently affecting washing of the washingmachine.

Preferentially, the washing machine is further provided with astart/pause key and a child lock key. The keys are connected with theaccommodating cavities 3 respectively and are detachable. Thestart/pause key is fixedly connected with the accommodating cavity 3.

More preferentially, only the child lock key and the activation key 2 ofthe washing machine are connected to the accommodating cavities 3 andare detachable.

Preferentially, after the activation key 2 is triggered, the controllerof the washing machine does not authorize the mobile terminal toremotely control the washing machine.

However, only after the child lock key is unlocked, can the activationkey 2 be triggered to perform a reaction, that is, authorize acorresponding intelligent terminal to control the washing machine.

Further, the accommodating cavity 3 includes at least one key slot 4matching the activation key 2 and a connection part disposed at theinternal periphery of the accommodating cavity 3. The activation key 2is connected to the connection part and is detachable.

Specifically, the key slot 4 matching the activation key 2 is formed inthe accommodating cavity 3. For example, a plurality of key slots 4 areuniformly formed in the accommodating cavity 3. In addition, the keyslot 4 corresponds to the connection part. Each key slot 4 has acorresponding connection part, to implement a connection to theactivation key 2.

For example, when the activation key 2 is a column structure, the keyslot 4 and accommodating cavity 3 are both column structures. The columnstructure includes a prism, a cylinder, a circular truncated cone, andthe like.

Further, the activation key 2 is clamped to or in threaded connectionwith the connection part.

In this embodiment, the activation key 2 is a cylinder structure. Athread is formed in the side surface of the cylinder structure. Inaddition, the connection part is a thread that is formed in the internalperiphery of the accommodating cavity 3 and that matches the activationkey 2. A threaded connection between the activation key 2 and theconnection part is formed.

Alternatively, the activation key 2 is clamped with the connection part.The activation key 2 is a circular truncated cone structure.

In addition, the accommodating cavity 3 is a cylinder structure matchingthe activation key 2.

Further, at least one clamping hole is formed in the connection part,and the activation key 2 is provided with a clamping jaw matching theclamping hole.

Specifically, a plurality of clamping holes may be formed in theconnection part, and are uniformly formed in the accommodating cavity 3.In addition, the activation key 2 is a circular truncated conestructure. The clamping jaws are uniformly disposed on the side surfaceof the circular truncated cone structure.

For example, when four clamping holes are formed in the connection part,the clamping holes are uniformly formed in the internal periphery of theaccommodating cavity 3, and an included angle between two adjacentclamping holes is 90 degrees. When three clamping holes are formed inthe connection part, an included angle between two adjacent clampingholes is 120 degrees. When two clamping holes are formed in theconnection part, an included angle between two adjacent clamping holesis 180 degrees.

Further, a first clamping hole 5 is formed in the connection part, andis disposed at the bottom at the internal periphery of the accommodatingcavity 3. A first clamping jaw 6 matching the first clamping hole 5 isdisposed at the bottom of the activation key 2.

Further, the first clamping jaw 6 is a clamping hook structure, a wedgedstructure, or a triangular structure.

Preferentially, the first clamping jaw 6 is a triangular structure

Specifically, the first clamping jaw 6 is disposed in the middle of theactivation key 2. The first edge of the first clamping jaw 6 matcheswith a side surface of the activation key 2, and is disposed in anoverlapping manner. In addition, the length of the first edge is ½ to ⅓of the length of a waistline of a side surface of the activation key 2.The second edge of the first clamping jaw 6 is vertically disposed infront of the activation key 2, and is parallel to the bottom surface ofthe activation key 2. The length of the second edge is 1/10 to 1/15 ofthe length of the diameter of the bottom surface of the activation key2. In addition, in this embodiment, the first clamping hole 5 is agroove structure. Preferentially, a second bevel is disposed in thegroove structure in an internal direction of the accommodating cavity 3.Moreover, the second bevel matches the third edge of the first clampingjaw 6.

Further, a second clamping hole 7 is also formed in the connection part,and is disposed at the top at the internal periphery of theaccommodating cavity 3. A second clamping jaw 8 matching the secondclamping hole 7 is also disposed at the top of the activation key 2.

Preferentially, a groove 9 is formed in an edge of the second clampinghole 7.

More preferentially, at least one edge of the groove 9 is set to be abevel.

Specifically, in this embodiment, a surface, facing the activation key2, of the groove 9 is set to be a first bevel 10, and the first bevel 10is smoothly connected to the accommodating cavity 3. In this embodiment,the disposed first bevel 10 can better facilitate dismounting of theactivation key 2.

Further, the second clamping jaw 8 is an elastic component.

Preferentially, the second clamping jaw 8 includes an elastic connectionpart, and a clamping hook disposed at one end of the elastic connectionpart.

Specifically, the first bevel 10 is in contact with the middle of theelastic connection part of the second clamping jaw 8. The elasticconnection part faces the first bevel 10, so that the activation key 2can be more conveniently mounted into and dismounted from theaccommodating cavity 3. For example, when a user exerts an acting forceon the elastic connection part through the groove 9, the elasticconnection part deforms elastically, and drives the clamping hook tomove out of the second clamping hole. Then, the activation key 2inclines outwards under an acting force in a direction far away from theaccommodating cavity 3, and the activation key 2 is taken out of theaccommodating cavity 3.

In conclusion, the washing machine in this embodiment prevents a case inwhich a child touches an activation key 2 by mistake and randomlyauthorizes an intelligent terminal to control and operate the washingmachine, which causes a potential safety hazard of the washing machine.In this embodiment, a detachable activation key 2 is disposed on theoperation panel 1 of the washing machine, and the activation key 2 is inwireless connection with the controller of the washing machine, so thata user can dispose the activation key 2 of the washing machine at a safeposition, to implement a control function, and ensure safe running ofthe washing machine.

Further, a sticking part may also be disposed at the bottom of theactivation key 2. The activation key 2 can be stuck at a high positionby using the sticking part, so as to not only prevent a child fromtouching the activation key 2 and operating the activation key 2 inerror, but also facilitate arrangement of the activation key 2. Inaddition, the activation key 2 can be placed at a position at which theuser can control the activation key 2 conveniently.

Alternatively, a sensing unit is also disposed in the accommodatingcavity 3. The sensing unit is connected to the controller of the washingmachine. Only when the sensing unit in the accommodating cavity 3 sensesan activation key 2, can the controller be triggered to send anauthorization instruction corresponding to the activation key 2.

In conclusion, the remote control system for a washing machine in thepresent disclosure solves a problem in wireless communication betweenthe activation key 2 and the controller of the washing machine. In thepresent disclosure, an energy conversion module is disposed in theactivation key 2 to supply power to the communication module, therebyimplementing separate arrangement of the activation key 2 andcommunication to the controller. Therefore, it can be ensured that theaccommodating cavity 3 in the operation panel 1 of the washing machineis smooth, arrangement of a port is avoided, and it is ensured that theaccommodating cavity 3 is safe and free of danger after the activationkey 2 is removed. In addition, the activation key 2 can be arrangedseparately, so that a user can control the washing machine conveniently.This improves experience of the user.

Preferentially, the washing machine includes a display unit. The displayunit is configured to output information about an intelligent terminalthat communicates with the washing machine through the first channel.Specifically, the display unit displays, in real time, an accountnumber, location information, and the like of each terminal thatcommunicates with the washing machine through the first channel.

Preferentially, the display unit is further configured to output controlinformation sent through the second channel. Specifically, the displayunit displays, in real time, an account number of an APP correspondingto the intelligent terminal that controls the washing machine, andcontrol instruction information that is sent by the intelligent terminalthrough the second channel.

Preferentially, the display unit is a display screen. The controller isconnected to the display screen, and controls the display screen todisplay information about the intelligent terminal that communicateswith the washing machine through the first channel.

Preferentially, the display screen is a touchscreen. The activationdevice includes the touchscreen, and is configured to receive aninstruction that is input by a user to authorize/prohibit anyintelligent terminal to remotely control/from remotely controlling thewashing machine. In this solution, a plurality of intelligent terminalscan all be networked, so as to be connected to the washing machinethrough the first channel. The intelligent terminal displays washingstatus information of the washing machine in real time. However, whenthe intelligent terminal needs to remotely control the washing machine,application information needs to be transmitted through the firstchannel, and the display screen can display the application information.To obtain authorization from the washing machine, confirmation on thedisplay screen needs to be clicked by a person. When a plurality ofpeople apply for remotely controlling the washing machine at the sametime within a time range, an icon that is on the display screen and thatcorresponds to a preauthorized intelligent terminal needs to be clickedby a person.

Certainly, in the present disclosure, the activation device may be anNFC card reader, an activation key 2, a touchscreen, or any combinationthereof. Preferentially, in the present disclosure, the activationdevice includes the activation key 2, the NFC card reader disposed onthe washing machine or disposed on the activation key 2, and thetouchscreen, thereby increasing authorization manners, being compatiblewith various intelligent terminals, and increasing authorizing mannersof an Internet-of-things washing machine. For example, if theintelligent terminals are mobile phones, when NFC tags are disposed onsome of the mobile phones, authorization can be implemented in a mobilephone swiping manner; or when no NFC tag is disposed on the mobilephones, authorization may be implemented by triggering the activationkey 2 or clicking on the touchscreen. Alternatively, when theintelligent terminals are remote computers, authorization cannot beimplemented through the NFC technology, and authorization may beimplemented by triggering the activation key 2 or clicking on thetouchscreen.

In this embodiment, the activation key 2 includes a key body and a keydetection circuit. The key detection circuit detects a key pressingsignal in real time, detects whether the key is pressed down and/ordetects a period in which the key is pressed down, and sends thedetection result to the controller. The controller performscorresponding controlling based on the detection result.

Preferentially, the detection circuit is configured to detect whetherthe key is pressed down, and send a detection result to the controller.The controller controls on/off of the second channel based on thedetection result. For example, when the detection circuit detects thatthe key is pressed down, the controller controls the second channel tobe through; and when the detection circuit detects that the key ispressed down again, the controller controls the second channel to be cutoff.

Alternatively, the detection circuit is configured to detect whether atime period in which the activation key 2 is pressed down exceeds aspecified time period, and sends a detection result to the controller.The controller controls on/off of the second channel based on thedetection result.

Alternatively, the detection circuit is configured to detect a quantityof times by which the activation key 2 is pressed down in a specifiedtime range. The controller controls, according to the quantity of times,a second channel between a different intelligent terminal and thewashing machine to open. In this solution, the controller determineswhich intelligent terminal is authorized according to the quantity oftimes by which the activation key 2 is pressed down.

Embodiment 2

As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the present disclosure further provides aremote control method for a washing machine, characterized in that awashing machine and a mobile terminal in wireless connection with thewashing machine are used, and the remote control method includes thefollowing steps: a status feedback channel that is between the washingmachine and the mobile terminal and that is configured to transmit aworking status of the washing machine is established; a control requestsent by the mobile terminal is received by the washing machine; andafter an activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine is activated,a control channel that is between the washing machine and the mobileterminal and that is configured to transmit a control instruction isestablished.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine mainly aims to ensure running safety when the washingmachine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal, and avoid safetyaccidents (for example, when a child plays in the washing machine, thewashing machine is remotely controlled to execute the washing program)caused when a running status or an ambient environment condition of thewashing machine cannot be observed and the mobile terminal is usedrashly to control the washing machine to execute a washing program. Inthis embodiment, according to the remote control method, the statusfeedback channel that is between the washing machine and the mobileterminal and that is configured to transmit a working status of thewashing machine is established, so that status information of thewashing machine is obtained on the mobile terminal in real time. Then,the control channel that is between the washing machine and the mobileterminal and that is configured to transmit a control instruction can beestablished only when a person who controls the washing machine inadvance pre-ensures that the washing machine is in a safe state oranother person ensures that the washing machine is in a safe state,thereby implementing remote control of the washing machine. In thisembodiment, the remote control method improves the running safety of thewashing machine, and avoids safety accidents.

The activation device is disposed on the washing machine or in a rangearound the washing machine. If the washing machine needs to be remotelycontrolled, the control channel between the washing machine and themobile terminal can be established only when the person who controls thewashing machine in advance or another person is in front of or near thewashing machine and triggers the activation device. Then, the controlinstruction can be sent to the washing machine through the controlchannel to achieve remote control. In other words, to remotely controlthe washing machine, there should be a person near the washing machineto activate the activation device, so that safety check is performedbefore the washing machine is forced to be remotely controlled.Therefore, safety in remotely controlling the washing machine isimproved.

Further, it is determined, by pressing the activation key 2 andinputting activation information in the remote control method and basedon the activation information, that the activation key 2 is activated.

Alternatively, a near-field sensing module disposed on the activationkey 2 performs near-field sensing with the mobile terminal, so as toobtain the activation information, and determine, based on theactivation information, that the activation key 2 is activated.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the washing machine includes acontroller. The activation key 2 is connected to the controller in awired or wireless manner. The activation key 2 includes a communicationmodule configured to communicatively connect to the controller and adetection module configured to detect whether the key is triggered. Whenthe detection module detects that the activation key 2 is triggered, asignal is sent to the controller by using the communication module.After receiving the signal, the controller authorizes the intelligentterminal to remotely control the washing machine.

The activation information is input to the washing machine by using thedetection module, and determines, based on the activation information,that the activation key 2 is activated.

Further, the remote control method includes the following steps:

S1: an APP on a mobile terminal is initiated, and the status feedbackchannel is established.

S2: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S3: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

S4: the control channel is established, wherein the mobile terminalsends a control instruction to the washing machine through the controlchannel.

Further, after an APP on the mobile terminal is initiated in step S1,the mobile terminal matches a corresponding washing machine, andestablishes a status feedback channel between the washing machine andthe mobile terminal.

Specifically, in this embodiment, safety in controlling the washingmachine by the mobile terminal is ensured, a mobile terminal of a userwho does not use the washing machine is prevented from obtaininginformation about the washing machine and controlling the washingmachine.

Further, between step S2 and step S3, or after the activation key 2disposed on the washing machine is activated in step S3, the methodfurther includes step A): whether a door body of the washing machine isclosed is determined; and if yes, a next step is performed; and if not,it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

Specifically, in the remote control method in this embodiment, thecontrol channel can be established only when the door body of thewashing machine is closed. In one aspect, it can be ensured that thecontrol instruction can be executed normally in a process in which themobile terminal remotely controls the washing machine. In anotheraspect, the remote control method can ensure that the door body is in aclosed state when the mobile terminal performs remote control, therebyensuring running safety of the washing machine.

Further, after the door body is closed in step A), the method furtherincludes step B): a door lock disposed on the door body is locked, andthen whether the door body is locked is determined; and if yes, a nextstep is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remote controlauthorization fails.

Further, between step S2 and step S3, or after the activation key 2disposed on the washing machine is activated in step S3, or after stepB), the method further includes step C): whether the washing machine isturned on is detected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and if not,it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

Specifically, in the remote control method in this embodiment, it isdetected whether the door body of the washing machine is in a closedstate. The washing machine can be remotely controlled by the mobileterminal successfully only if the door body of the washing machine is ina closed state. For example, a remote control start state is displayedon an operation interface of the washing machine. The washing machinemay further indicate that the control channel is successfully opened tothe mobile terminal through remote control. If the door body of thewashing machine is in an open state, information that the door body ofthe washing machine is not closed and information indicating that remotecontrol authorization fails are fed back to the mobile terminal throughthe status feedback channel. Information instructing a user to close thedoor body may also be sent through the status feedback channel.

Further, after the washing machine is turned on in step C), the methodfurther includes step D): whether a function key of the washing machineis triggered is detected; and if the function key is not triggered, anext step is performed; and if the function key is triggered, it isindicated that remote control authorization fails.

Specifically, in the control method in this embodiment, if it isdetermined, by detecting whether a function key of the washing machineis triggered, that the washing machine is an operated state, the mobileterminal is prohibited from remotely controlling the washing machine. Inother words, a priority of locally direct control of the washing machineis higher than that of remote control of the mobile terminal. Further,operation safety of the washing machine is improved.

Further, after the washing machine is started in step C), or after stepD), the method further includes step E): whether the washing machine isexecuting a washing program is detected; and if yes, it is indicatedthat remote control authorization fails; and if not, S4 is performed.

Specifically, in this embodiment, whether the washing machine issuitable to be remotely controlled by the mobile terminal is determinedby detecting whether the washing machine is executing a washing program,so that the washing machine can complete a corresponding washingprogram, thereby ensuring the running safety of the washing machine.

Further, after the control channel is established in step S4, the doorbody of the washing machine is locked.

Specifically, after the control channel that is configured to transmit acontrol instruction and that is between the mobile terminal and washingmachine is established in step S4 in this embodiment, the door body ofthe washing machine is locked, so as to ensure that when the washingmachine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal, a scouring barrelof the washing machine is in a sealed state. Therefore, a case that therunning is unsafe when a person opens the door body of the washingmachine in error is avoided, and running safety of the washing machinein a remote control phase is controlled.

In this embodiment, the remote control method includes the followingsteps:

S1: an APP on a mobile terminal is initiated, and the status feedbackchannel is established.

S2: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S3: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, A) is performed; and if not, it isindicated that remote control authorization fails.

A): whether a door body of the washing machine is closed is determined;and if yes, B) is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remotecontrol authorization fails.

B): a door lock disposed on the door body is locked, and then whetherthe door body is locked is determined; and if yes, C) is performed; andif not, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

C): whether the washing machine is turned on is detected; and if yes, D)is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remote controlauthorization fails.

D): whether a function key of the washing machine is triggered isdetected; and if not, E) is performed; and if yes, it is indicated thatremote control authorization fails.

E): whether the washing machine is executing a washing program isdetected; and if yes, it is indicated that remote control authorizationfails; and if not, S4 is performed.

S4: the control channel is established and the door body of the washingmachine is locked, wherein the mobile terminal sends a controlinstruction to the washing machine through the control channel.

Embodiment 3

As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the present disclosure further provides aremote control method for a washing machine, characterized in that awashing machine and a mobile terminal in wireless connection with thewashing machine are used, and the remote control method includes thefollowing steps: a status feedback channel that is between the washingmachine and the mobile terminal and that is configured to transmit acontrol instruction is established; a control request sent by the mobileterminal is received by the washing machine; after an activation key 2disposed on the washing machine is activated, verification informationis fed back to the mobile terminal; and after the verificationinformation passes verification, a control channel that is configured totransmit a working status of the washing machine and that is between thewashing machine and the mobile terminal is established.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine mainly aims to ensure running safety when the washingmachine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal, and avoid safetyaccidents (for example, when a child plays inside the washing machine,the washing machine is remotely controlled to execute the washingprogram) caused when a running status or an ambient environmentcondition of the washing machine cannot be observed and the mobileterminal is used rashly to control the washing machine to execute awashing program. In this embodiment, according to the remote controlmethod, the status feedback channel that is between the washing machineand the mobile terminal and that is configured to transmit a workingstatus of the washing machine is established, so as to feed back statusinformation of the washing machine to the mobile terminal in real time.Firstly, a person who controls the washing machine in advance needs topre-ensure that the washing machine is in a safe state or another personneeds to ensure that the washing machine is in a safe state. Then, themobile terminal can establish the control channel that is configured totransmit a control instruction and that is between the washing machineand the mobile terminal only after the verification information passesverification. Therefore, duplicate protection on remote control of thewashing machine is implemented, running safety of the washing machine isimproved, and safety accidents are avoided.

Further, in the remote control method, the washing machine feeds backverification information to the mobile terminal.

Alternatively, a cloud server that is separately connected to thewashing machine and the mobile terminal feeds back verificationinformation to the mobile terminal.

Further, the verification information includes one or any combination ofmodel information of the washing machine, user information, verificationcode, or verification password.

Preferentially, the verification code is randomly generated by thewashing machine/cloud server, or preset by a user.

Alternatively, the verification password is randomly generated by thewashing machine/cloud server, or preset by a user.

Specifically, in this embodiment, according to the remote controlmethod, the washing machine feeds back preset verification informationor randomly generated verification information to the mobile terminal.The control channel that is configured to transmit a control instructionand that is between the washing machine and the mobile terminal can beestablished only after the verification information passes verification.

Alternatively, according to the remote control method, the cloud serverfeeds back preset verification information or randomly generatedverification information to the mobile terminal. The control channelthat is configured to transmit a control instruction and that is betweenthe washing machine and the mobile terminal can be established onlyafter the verification information passes verification.

In this embodiment, verification information is mainly used to achieve atwo-factor authentication manner, to further ensure safety in remotelycontrolling the washing machine by the mobile terminal. For example, aperson different from a family member is prevented from controlling awashing machine in a family by using a mobile terminal.

Further, the remote control method includes the following steps:

S101: an APP on the mobile terminal is initiated, and between thewashing machine and the mobile terminal, a status feedback channel usedto transmit a control instruction is established.

S102: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S103: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, the washing machine feeds backverification code to the mobile terminal, and then performs a next step;and if not, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

S104: whether verification information is correct is determined; and ifyes, a control channel between the washing machine and the mobileterminal is established, wherein the mobile terminal sends a controlinstruction to the washing machine through the control channel; and ifnot, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

Further, it is determined, by pressing the activation key 2 andinputting activation information in the remote control method and basedon the activation information, that the activation key 2 is activated.

Alternatively, a near-field sensing module disposed on the activationkey 2 performs near-field sensing with the mobile terminal, so as toobtain the activation information, and determine, based on theactivation information, that the activation key 2 is activated.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the washing machine includes acontroller. The activation key 2 is connected to the controller in awired or wireless manner. The activation key 2 includes a communicationmodule configured to communicatively connect to the controller and adetection module configured to detect whether the key is triggered. Whenthe detection module detects that the activation key 2 is triggered, asignal is sent to the controller by using the communication module.After receiving the signal, the controller authorizes the intelligentterminal to remotely control the washing machine.

The detection module that controls the key detects activationinformation that is input by a user by using the activation key 2 todetermine whether the activation key 2 is in an activated state, andthen performs a next step.

Alternatively, the activation device includes a near-field recognitionunit. When the intelligent terminal is within the recognition range ofthe near-field recognition unit, the washing machine authorizes theintelligent terminal to remotely control the washing machine. Thenear-field recognition unit of the activation key 2 performs near-fieldcommunication with the mobile terminal, obtains activation informationto determine whether the activation key 2 is in an activated state, andthen performs a next step.

In this embodiment, a user can use the mobile terminal to remotelycontrol the washing machine only after a person who controls the washingmachine in advance or another person pre-ensures that the washingmachine is in a safe state, so that the remote control method for awashing machine has a better safety performance.

Further, before step S101, or between step S101 and step S102, themethod further includes step AA): reservation information remotelycontrolled by a mobile terminal is set on a washing machine.

The reservation information includes one or any combination of a controlrequest validity time, mobile terminal information, verification code,or verification password.

Further, between step S102 and step S103, or after it is determined instep S103 that the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated, the method further includes step BB): whether the controlrequest conforms to the reservation information is determined; and ifyes, a next step is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remotecontrol authorization fails.

Specifically, according to the remote control method in this embodimentfor a washing machine, a person who controls the washing machine inadvance can set reservation information for remote control on thewashing machine in advance, and compares the control request with thereservation information, determines whether the reservation informationconforms to reserved remote control. For example, a mobile terminalcorresponding to a user XXX will perform remote control on the washingmachine between 12 AM to 5 PM, and verification code is XXXX. When themobile terminal corresponding to the user XXX sends a control request tothe washing machine at 3 PM, and the preset verification code XXXX iscorrespondingly input, the control channel is established. When themobile terminal corresponding to the user XXX sends a control request at10 AM, because it does not conform to the reservation information, thecontrol channel cannot be established, and it is indicated that remotecontrol authorization fails. Therefore, protection in a reservation modeis added to remote control of the washing machine, which improves therunning safety of the washing machine.

Further, after it is determined in step S103 that the activation key 2is activated, the washing machine sends verification code or averification password to a corresponding mobile terminal in thereservation information.

Alternatively, after it is determined in step BB) that the controlrequest conforms to the reservation information, the washing machinesends verification code or a verification password to a correspondingmobile terminal in the reservation information.

Specifically, the verification code or verification password in thisembodiment is verification code or verification password that is presetin the reservation information by a user.

Further, after the control channel between the washing machine and themobile terminal is established in step S104, the method further includesthe following steps:

S111: whether the activation key 2 and/or a function key of the washingmachine are/is triggered is detected; and if yes, the control channel iscut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained; and if not, anext step is performed.

S112: whether the door lock of the washing machine is unlocked isdetected; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if not, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then S111 is performed.

Further, between step S111 and step S112, the method further includesstep CC): whether a cloth washing program of the washing machine ends isdetected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and if not, the clothwashing program is continuously executed, and then S111 is performed.

Alternatively, after it is detected in step S203 that a door lock of adoor body of the washing machine is unlocked, the method furtherincludes step CC′): whether a cloth washing program of the washingmachine ends is detected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, the cloth washing program is continuously executed, and then S111is performed.

In this embodiment, the remote control method for a washing machineincludes the following steps:

AA): reservation information remotely controlled by a mobile terminal isset on a washing machine.

S101. an APP on the mobile terminal is initiated, and a status feedbackchannel that is configured to transmit a control instruction and that isbetween the washing machine and the mobile terminal is established.

S102: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

BB): whether the control request conforms to the reservation informationis determined; and if yes, S103 is performed; and if not, it isindicated that remote control authorization fails.

S103: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, the washing machine sendsverification code or a verification password to a corresponding mobileterminal in the reservation information, and then a next step isperformed; and if not, it is indicated that remote control authorizationfails.

S104: whether verification information is correct is determined; and ifyes, a control channel between the washing machine and the mobileterminal is established, wherein the mobile terminal sends a controlinstruction to the washing machine through the control channel; and ifnot, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

S111: whether the activation key 2 and/or a function key of the washingmachine are/is triggered is determined; and if yes, the control channelis cut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained; and if not,CC) is performed.

CC): whether a cloth washing program of the washing machine ends isdetected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and if not, the clothwashing program is continuously executed, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then S111 is performed.

S112: whether the door lock of the washing machine is unlocked isdetected; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if not, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then S111 is performed.

Embodiment 4

As shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the present disclosure further providesa remote control method for a washing machine, characterized in that awashing machine and a mobile terminal in wireless connection with thewashing machine are used, and the remote control method includes thefollowing steps: between the mobile terminal and the washing machine, acontrol channel configured to transmit a control instruction and astatus feedback channel configured to transmit a working status of thewashing machine are established; whether the washing machine istriggered is detected; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, andthe status feedback channel is maintained; and if not, the controlchannel and the status feedback channel are maintained.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine is mainly characterized in that when the mobile terminalremotely controls the washing machine, after triggering operation isdirectly performed on the washing machine, the control channel is cutoff, that is, remote control of the mobile terminal is cut off, and onlya user near the washing machine controls and operates the washingmachine. Therefore, it is ensured that remote control of the mobileterminal is cut off as soon as an environment of the washing machinechanges, which ensures the running safety of the washing machine.

Further, the triggering the washing machine includes triggering one orany combination of an activation key 2 that is configured to authorizethe mobile terminal to send a control instruction to the washing machineand that is disposed on the washing machine, a function key disposed onthe washing machine, or a door lock of the washing machine.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine can actively cut off the control channel by triggeringthe activation key 2.

Alternatively, after a user triggers the function key of the washingmachine or the door lock to directly operate and control the washingmachine, the control channel is cut off passively. In this embodiment,it is ensured, in the foregoing manner, the remote control method cancut off remote control of the mobile terminal in time. Therefore, remotecontrol can be performed only when the washing machine is in a safestate. Once a state of the washing machine changes and whether thewashing machine is in a safe state cannot be distinguished, remotecontrol of the mobile terminal is cut off to ensure safe running of thewashing machine.

Further, the remote control method includes the following steps:

S201. a control channel and a status feedback channel that are betweenthe mobile terminal and the washing machine are established.

S202. whether the activation key 2 and/or a function key of the washingmachine are/is triggered is detected; and if yes, the control channel iscut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained; and if not, anext step is performed.

S203. whether the door lock of the washing machine is unlocked isdetected; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if not, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then S202 is performed.

Further, the step S201 of establishing a control channel and a statusfeedback channel that are between the mobile terminal and the washingmachine includes the following steps:

S211. an APP on a mobile terminal is initiated, and the status feedbackchannel is established.

S212. a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S213. whether the activation key 2 is activated is determined; and ifyes, a next step is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remotecontrol authorization fails.

Further, between step S202 and step S203, the method further includesstep AAA): whether a cloth washing program of the washing machine endsis detected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and if not, the clothwashing program is continuously executed, and then S203 is performed.

Alternatively, after it is detected in step S203 that a door lock of adoor body of the washing machine is unlocked, the method furtherincludes step AAA′): whether a cloth washing program of the washingmachine ends is detected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, the cloth washing program is continuously executed, and then S202is performed.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine can ensure normal running of the cloth washing programexecuted during remote control of the mobile terminal, thereby improvingthe running safety of the washing machine.

Further, after the cloth washing program of the washing machine ends,the method further includes step BBB): timing is started; whether themobile terminal sends a control instruction to the washing machinewithin a specified time is determined; and if not, the control channelis cut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained; and if yes,S203 is performed.

Specifically, according to the remote control method for a washingmachine in this embodiment, the washing machine can be usedsufficiently, to avoid a case that because a mobile terminal occupies awashing machine in a long period in which the mobile terminal does notuse the washing machine, the washing machine cannot be used.

Further, after it is detected in step S202 that the function key of thewashing machine is triggered, the method further includes step CCC): thecontrol instruction sent by using the function key is received; whetherthe control instruction is a stop instruction or a stop dryinginstruction is determined; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, the control channel between the mobile terminal and the washingmachine is cut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained.

Further, after it is determined in step CCC) that the controlinstruction is the stop instruction or the stop drying instruction, themethod further includes step DDD): whether the washing machine is in adrying phase is detected; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, the control channel is cut off, the status feedback channel ismaintained, and then the control instruction is performed.

Further, after it is detected in step DDD) that the washing machine isin the drying phase, the further includes step EEE): whether atemperature of the washing machine exceeds a preset temperature isdetected; and if yes, the door lock is locked, a temperature reductionphase is performed, the control instruction is executed after thetemperature in the washing machine decreases to the specifiedtemperature, then the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if not, the control channel is cutoff, and the status feedback channel is maintained.

Preferentially, a range of the preset temperature is 40° C. to 70° C.

More preferentially, the preset temperature is 55° C.

Specifically, according to the remote control method for a washingmachine in this embodiment, a potential safety hazard that is to runningof the washing machine and that is caused by a control instruction ofthe mobile terminal can be avoided. For example, when the washingmachine is in a drying phase, and the interior of the washing machine ishigh in temperature, the mobile terminal sends a power-off instruction,an unwitting user opens the high-temperature washing machine, andconsequently, an accident occurs. Further, after the control channel iscut off in step S202 and/or step S203, establishing a control channelbetween the mobile terminal and the washing machine again is notallowed.

In addition, when the washing machine is in a high-temperaturecondition, and needs to be powered off, the control instructioncorrespondingly sent by the mobile terminal is executed only after atemperature reduction phase is performed before powering off and thetemperature reaches a safe standard, thereby further ensuring therunning safety of the washing machine.

Further, after the control channel is cut off in step S202 and/or stepS203, establishing a control channel between the mobile terminal and thewashing machine again is not allowed.

Specifically, according to the remote control method in this embodiment,after the control channel is cut off by the mobile terminal,reestablishing a control channel between the washing machine and themobile terminal is prevented. It can be further ensured that remotecontrol of the mobile terminal can be implemented only if it is verifiedthat the washing machine is in a safe condition; and once thepre-verified condition changes, the mobile terminal does not have remotecontrol rights any more based on a condition pre-verified before.Therefore, it is ensured that the mobile terminal remotely controls thewashing machine safely.

In this embodiment, the remote control method for a washing machineincludes the following steps:

S211: an APP on a mobile terminal is initiated, and the status feedbackchannel is established.

212. a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S213: whether the activation key 2 is activated is determined; and ifyes, the control channel is established, and then a next step isperformed; and if not, it is indicated that remote control authorizationfails.

S202. whether the activation key 2 and/or a function key of the washingmachine are/is triggered is detected; and if yes, CCC) is performed; andif not, AAA) is performed.

AAA): whether a cloth washing program of the washing machine ends isdetected; and if yes, BBB) is performed; and if not, the cloth washingprogram is continuously executed, and then S203 is performed.

BBB): timing is started; whether the mobile terminal sends a controlinstruction to the washing machine within a specified time isdetermined; and if not, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if yes, S203 is performed.

CCC): a control instruction sent by using the function key is acquired;whether the control instruction is a stop instruction or a stop dryinginstruction is determined; and if yes, DDD) is performed; and if not,the control channel between the mobile terminal and the washing machineis cut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained.

DDD): whether the washing machine is in a drying phase is detected; andif yes, EEE) is performed; and if not, the control channel is cut off,the status feedback channel is maintained, and then the controlinstruction is performed.

EEE): whether a temperature of the washing machine exceeds a presettemperature is determined; and if yes, the door lock is locked, atemperature reduction phase is performed, the control instruction isexecuted after the temperature in the washing machine decreases to thespecified temperature, then the control channel is cut off, and thestatus feedback channel is maintained; and if not, the control channelis cut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained.

S203: whether the door lock of the washing machine is unlocked isdetermined; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if not, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then S202 is performed.

Embodiment 5

As shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the present disclosure further providesa remote control method for a washing machine, characterized in that awashing machine and a mobile terminal in wireless connection with thewashing machine are used, and the remote control method includes thefollowing steps: a status feedback channel that is configured totransmit a working status of the washing machine and that is between thewashing machine and the mobile terminal is established; and after anactivation key 2 disposed on the washing machine is triggered and a doorbody of the washing machine is closed, a control channel that isconfigured to transmit a control instruction and that is between thewashing machine and the mobile terminal is established.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine mainly aims to ensure running safety when the washingmachine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal, and avoid such arunning failure of the washing machine that the mobile terminal israshly used to remotely control the washing machine when the door bodyof the washing machine is not closed.

Further, after the activation key 2 on the washing machine is activated,and the door body of the washing machine is closed, verificationinformation is fed back to the mobile terminal. A control channel thatis configured to transmit a working status of the washing machine andthat is between the washing machine and the mobile terminal isestablished only after the verification information passes verification.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the remote control method for awashing machine mainly aims to ensure running safety when the washingmachine is remotely controlled by the mobile terminal, and avoid safetyaccidents (for example, when a child plays in the washing machine, thewashing machine is remotely controlled to execute a cloth washingprogram) caused when a user cannot observe a running status or anambient environment condition of the washing machine and the mobileterminal is rashly used to control the washing machine to execute acloth washing program. Alternatively, if the door body of the washingmachine is not closed, the washing machine in a remote control statecannot perform any washing operation. Therefore, according to the remotecontrol method in this embodiment, a status feedback channel that isconfigured to transmit a working status of the washing machine and thatis between the washing machine and the mobile terminal is established,to feed back status information of the washing machine to the mobileterminal in real time. In order to establish a control channel that isconfigured to transmit a control instruction and that is between thewashing machine and the mobile terminal, first, it needs to bepre-ensured or ensured, by a person who controls the washing machine inadvance or another person, that the washing machine is in a safe state,then it needs to be ensured that the door body of the washing machine isin a closed state, and finally, it also needs to be ensured that themobile terminal passes verification of the verification information.Therefore, triple protection on remote control of the washing machine isimplemented, running safety of the washing machine is improved, andsafety accidents are avoided.

Further, the remote control method includes the following steps:

S301: an APP on the mobile terminal is initiated, and a status feedbackchannel between the washing machine and the mobile terminal isautomatically established.

S302: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S303: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

S304: whether a door body of the washing machine is closed is detected;and if yes, verification information is fed back to the mobile terminal;and if not, it is indicated that the mobile terminal fails to controlauthorization.

S305: whether verification information is correct is determined; and ifyes, a control channel between the washing machine and the mobileterminal is established, and the door body is locked, wherein the mobileterminal sends a control instruction to the washing machine through thecontrol channel; and if not, it is indicated that remote controlauthorization fails.

Further, according to the remote control method, the washing machinefeeds back verification information to the mobile terminal.

Alternatively, a cloud server that is separately connected to thewashing machine and the mobile terminal feeds back verificationinformation to the mobile terminal.

Further, the verification information includes one or any combination ofmodel information of the washing machine, user information, verificationcode, or verification password.

Preferentially, the verification code is randomly generated by thewashing machine/cloud server, or preset by a user.

Alternatively, the verification password is randomly generated by thewashing machine/cloud server, or preset by a user.

Further, it is determined, by pressing the activation key 2 andinputting activation information in the remote control method and basedon the activation information, that the activation key 2 is activated.

Alternatively, a near-field sensing module disposed on the activationkey 2 performs near-field sensing with the mobile terminal, so as toobtain the activation information, and determine, based on theactivation information, that the activation key 2 is activated.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the washing machine includes acontroller. The activation key 2 is connected to the controller in awired or wireless manner. The activation key 2 includes a communicationmodule configured to communicatively connect to the controller and adetection module configured to detect whether the key is triggered. Whenthe detection module detects that the activation key 2 is triggered, asignal is sent to the controller by using the communication module.After receiving the signal, the controller authorizes the intelligentterminal to remotely control the washing machine.

The detection module that controls the key detects activationinformation that is input by a user by using the activation key 2 todetermine whether the activation key 2 is in an activated state, andthen performs a next step.

Alternatively, the activation device includes a near-field recognitionunit. When the intelligent terminal is within the recognition range ofthe near-field recognition unit, the washing machine authorizes theintelligent terminal to remotely control the washing machine. Thenear-field recognition unit of the activation key 2 performs near-fieldcommunication with the mobile terminal, obtains activation informationto determine whether the activation key 2 is in an activated state, andthen performs a next step.

In this embodiment, a user can use the mobile terminal to remotelycontrol the washing machine only after a person who controls the washingmachine in advance or another person pre-ensures that the washingmachine is in a safe state, so that the remote control method for awashing machine has a better safety performance.

Further, before step S301, or between step S301 and step S302, themethod further includes step AAAA): reservation information remotelycontrolled by a mobile terminal is set on a washing machine.

The reservation information includes one or any combination of a controlrequest validity time, mobile terminal information, verification code,or verification password.

Further, between step S302 and step S303, or after it is determined instep S303 that the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated, or after it is detected in step S304 that the door body ofthe washing machine is closed, the method further includes step BBBB):whether the control request conforms to the reservation information isdetermined; and if yes, a next step is performed; and if not, it isindicated that remote control authorization fails.

Further, after it is detected in step S304 that the door body of thewashing machine is closed, the washing machine sends verification codeor a verification password to a corresponding mobile terminal in thereservation information.

Alternatively, after it is determined in step BBBB) that the controlrequest conforms to the reservation information, the washing machinesends verification code or a verification password to a correspondingmobile terminal in the reservation information.

Further, after it is detected in step S304 that the door body of thewashing machine is closed, or after it is determined in step S305 thatthe verification information is correct, the method further includesstep CCCC): a door lock disposed on the door body is locked, and thenwhether the door body is locked is determined; and if yes, a next stepis performed; and if not, it is indicated that remote controlauthorization fails.

Specifically, in this embodiment, further verification is performed byusing the verification information, to ensure safety in remotelycontrolling the washing machine by the mobile terminal. Therefore, thewashing machine is prevented from being arbitrarily controlled byanother user, which causes unsafe running of the washing machine.

In this embodiment, the remote control method for a washing machineincludes the following steps:

AAAA): reservation information remotely controlled by a mobile terminalis set on a washing machine.

S301: an APP on the mobile terminal is initiated, and a status feedbackchannel between the washing machine and the mobile terminal isautomatically established.

S302: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

BBBB): whether the control request conforms to the reservationinformation is determined; and if yes, S303 is performed; and if not, itis indicated that remote control authorization fails.

S303: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, S304 is performed; and if not, itis indicated that remote control authorization fails.

S304: whether a door body of the washing machine is closed is detected;and if yes, the washing machine sends verification code or averification password to a corresponding mobile terminal in thereservation information; and if not, it is indicated that the mobileterminal fails to control authorization.

S305: whether verification information is correct is determined; and ifyes, CCCC) is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remote controlauthorization fails.

CCCC): a door lock disposed on the door body is locked, and then whetherthe door body is locked is determined; and if yes, a control channelbetween the washing machine and the mobile terminal is established, andthe door body is locked, wherein the mobile terminal sends a controlinstruction to the washing machine through the control channel; and ifnot, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

Embodiment 6

As shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the present disclosure further providesa remote control method for a washing machine, characterized in that awashing machine and a mobile terminal in wireless connection with thewashing machine are used, and the remote control method includes thefollowing steps: between the mobile terminal and the washing machine, acontrol channel configured to transmit a control instruction and astatus feedback channel configured to transmit a working status of thewashing machine are established; status information of the washingmachine is acquired; and when the status information does not matchpreset information by which the mobile terminal remotely controls thewashing machine, the control channel is cut off, and the status feedbackchannel is maintained.

Specifically, the remote control method in this embodiment mainly aimsto avoid such a case that when the mobile terminal remotely controls thewashing machine, the status information of the washing machine cannot beobtained accurately due to a long distance, and consequently, thecontrol instruction sent by the mobile terminal cannot be executed, orthe mobile terminal operates the washing machine in error. Therefore,according to the remote control method in this embodiment, when thewashing machine that can be remotely operated by the mobile terminal isdisposed, status conditions corresponding to the washing machine arecentralized, and then preset information by which the mobile terminalremotely controls the washing machine is formed accordingly. Inaddition, it is determined whether real-time status information of thewashing machine matches the preset information, and if the real-timestatus information of the washing machine matches the presetinformation, the mobile terminal remotely controls the washing machine.

Further, the status information includes one or any combination ofstatus information of each device of the washing machine, door bodyinformation, running status information of the washing machine, powergrid information, or water supply information.

Preferentially, the status information of each device of the washingmachine includes status information of a motor, and/or statusinformation of a drying device.

Specifically, according to the remote control method in this embodiment,when the status information is that a motor runs normally, a door bodyis locked, water is supplied normally, and power is supplied normally,the control channel and the status feedback channel are maintained. Whenthe status information is that a motor runs normally, a door body islocked, water is supplied normally, power supply is to be cut off at 3PM, and a time at which the control instruction is predicted to befinished is 5 PM, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained. Therefore, cases, caused when the mobileterminal forcibly and remotely controls the washing machine to executethe program, the program cannot be finished in time and clothes aresoaked in water for a long time and are dyed are avoided.

Further, the remote control method includes the following steps:

S401: a control channel and a status feedback channel that are betweenthe mobile terminal and the washing machine are established.

S402: status information of the washing machine is obtained

S403: whether the status information matches the preset information bywhich the mobile terminal remotely controls the washing machine isdetermined; and if yes, the control channel and the status feedbackchannel are maintained; and if not, the control channel is cut off, andthe status feedback channel is maintained.

Further, the step S401 of establishing a control channel and a statusfeedback channel that are between the mobile terminal and the washingmachine includes the following steps:

S411: an APP on a mobile terminal is initiated, and the status feedbackchannel is established.

S412: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S413: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, a next step is performed; and ifnot, it is indicated that remote control authorization fails.

Further, the determining whether the status information matches thepreset information by which the mobile terminal remotely controls thewashing machine in step S403 includes the following steps:

S431: whether the door body of the washing machine is locked isdetected; and if not, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if yes, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then S432 is performed.

S432: status information of a motor of the washing machine is obtained;whether the motor of the washing machine runs normally is detected; andif not, the control channel is cut off, and the status feedback channelis maintained; and if yes, the control channel and the status feedbackchannel are maintained, and then a next step is performed.

Further, before step S432, or after it is determined in step S432 thatthe motor of the washing machine runs normally, the method furtherincludes S433: status information of a drying device of the washingmachine is obtained; whether the drying device runs normally isdetected; and if not, the control channel is cut off, and the statusfeedback channel is maintained; and if yes, the control channel and thestatus feedback channel are maintained, and then a next step isperformed

Specifically, in this embodiment, the door body, the motor, the dryingdevice and the like of the washing machine are detected in advance, sothat the mobile terminal can control the washing machine safely andstably, and a control instruction sent by the mobile terminal to thewashing machine can be finished in time.

Further, after it is determined in step S403 that the status informationmatches the preset information by which the mobile terminal remotelycontrols the washing machine, the method further includes S404: acontrol instruction sent by the mobile terminal to the washing machineis obtained.

Further, after step S404, the method further includes S405: whether thecontrol instruction matches the status information is determined; and ifyes, the control channel and the status feedback channel are maintained,and then a next step is performed; and if not, the control channel iscut off, and the status feedback channel is maintained.

Further, in step S405, the method includes the following steps:

S451: whether the control instruction is a washing program isdetermined; and if yes, S452 is performed; and if not, a next step isperformed.

S452: water supply information is obtained; whether a water supply iscut off is determined; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, andthe status feedback channel is maintained; and if not, the controlchannel and the status feedback channel are maintained, and then S453 isperformed.

S453: power grid information is obtained; whether the controlinstruction is an energy-saving mode is determined; and if yes, awashing time corresponding to each washing phase of the washing programis obtained based on the power grid information; and if not, normalrunning is performed.

Preferentially, the power grid information includes a step tariff andpower consumption trend information.

Specifically, in this embodiment, when the control instruction is theenergy-saving mode, a washing time corresponding to each washing phaseof the washing program is mainly adjusted based on the power gridinformation in such a manner that energy consumption parameters in eachwashing phase are compared with the power grid information to obtain awashing time corresponding to each washing phase. For example, ahigh-power consumption dewatering phase is set to be run when a powergrid is at an ebb stage. Therefore, power consumption of the washingmachine can be further reduced, and intelligentization of the remotecontrol method is realized.

Alternatively, in this embodiment, after it is determined in step S451that the control instruction is not a washing program, the methodfurther includes the following steps:

S461: whether the control instruction is a drying program is determined;and if yes, S462 is performed; and if not, a next step is performed.

S462: power grid information is obtained; whether the controlinstruction is an energy-saving mode is determined; and if yes, arunning time corresponding to the drying program is obtained based onthe power grid information; and if not, the drying program is runnormally.

Specifically, in this embodiment, when the control instruction is theenergy-saving mode, the running time corresponding to the drying programis adjusted based on the power grid information, and the drying programis executed. For example, when a power grid is at a peak stage, thedrying program is paused. When a power grid is at an ebb stage, thedrying program is started and executed.

Further, after the control channel is cut off in the remote controlmethod, establishing a control channel between the mobile terminal andthe washing machine again is not allowed.

In this embodiment, the remote control method for a washing machineincludes the following steps:

S411: an APP on a mobile terminal is initiated, and the status feedbackchannel is established.

S412: a control request is sent to the washing machine by the mobileterminal.

S413: whether the activation key 2 disposed on the washing machine isactivated is determined; and if yes, the control channel is established,and then S402 is performed; and if not, it is indicated that remotecontrol authorization fails.

S402: status information of the washing machine is obtained.

S431: whether a door body of the washing machine is locked is detected;and if yes, the control channel is cut off, and the status feedbackchannel is maintained; and if not, S432 is performed.

S432: status information of a motor of the washing machine is obtained;whether the motor of the washing machine runs normally is determined;and if not, the control channel is cut off, and the status feedbackchannel is maintained; and if yes, S451 is performed.

S451: whether the control instruction is a washing program isdetermined; and if yes, S452 is performed; and if not, a next step isperformed.

S452: water supply information is obtained; whether a water supply iscut off is determined; and if yes, the control channel is cut off, andthe status feedback channel is maintained; and if not, S453 isperformed.

S453: power grid information is obtained, whether the controlinstruction is an energy-saving mode is determined; and if yes, awashing time corresponding to each washing phase of the washing programis obtained based on the power grid information; and if not, the controlchannel and the status feedback channel are maintained, and the washingprogram is operated normally.

S461: whether the control instruction is a drying program is determined;and if yes, S462 is performed; and if not, a next step is performed.

S462: power grid information is obtained; whether the controlinstruction is an energy-saving mode is determined; and if yes, acorresponding time of the drying program is obtained based on the powergrid information; and if not, the control channel and the statusfeedback channel are maintained, and the drying program is run normally.

Implementation solutions in the foregoing embodiments may be furthercombined or replaced. The embodiments are merely used to describeexample embodiments in the present disclosure, but are not intended tolimit a concept and a range of the present disclosure. Variousmodifications and variations to the solutions of the present disclosuremade by a person skilled in the art without departing from the designidea of the present disclosure all belong to the protection scope of thepresent disclosure.

1. A remote control method for a washing machine, wherein the washingmachine is in wireless connection with a mobile terminal, and the remotecontrol method comprises the following steps: establishing, between themobile terminal and the washing machine, a control channel used totransmit a control instruction and a status feedback channel used totransmit a working status of the washing machine; obtaining statusinformation of the washing machine; and cutting off the control channel,and keeping the status feedback channel open, when the statusinformation does not match preset information by which the mobileterminal remotely controls the washing machine.
 2. The remote controlmethod for the washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the statusinformation comprises one or more than one kind of information selectedfrom a group consisting status information of each device of the washingmachine, door body information, running status information of thewashing machine, power grid information, and water supply information.3. The remote control method for the washing machine according to claim1, wherein the remote control method comprises the following steps:S401: establishing the control channel and the status feedback channelbetween the mobile terminal and the washing machine; S402: obtaining thestatus information of the washing machine; and S403: determining whetherthe status information matches the preset information by which themobile terminal remotely controls the washing machine; and if the statusinformation matches the present information, keeping the control channeland the status feedback channel open; and if the status information doesnot match the preset information, cutting off the control channel, andkeeping the status feedback channel open.
 4. The remote control methodfor the washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the step S401 ofestablishing the control channel and the status feedback channel betweenthe mobile terminal and the washing machine comprises: S411: initiatingan APP on the mobile terminal, and establishing the status feedbackchannel; S412: sending a control request to the washing machine by themobile terminal; and S413: determining whether an activation keydisposed on the washing machine is activated; and if the activation keyis activated, establishing the control channel, and performing a nextstep; and if the activation key is not activated, indicating that aremote control authorization fails.
 5. The remote control method for thewashing machine according to claim 3, wherein the step S403 ofdetermining whether the status information matches the presetinformation by which the mobile terminal remotely controls the washingmachine comprises: S431: detecting whether a door body of the washingmachine is locked; and if does not detect the door body is locked,cutting off the control channel, and keeping the status feedback channelopen; and if detects the door body is locked, performing S432; and S432:obtaining the status information of the motor of the washing machine,and determining whether the motor of the washing machine runs normally;and if the motor runs abnormally, cutting off the control channel, andkeeping the status feedback channel open; and if the motor runsnormally, keeping the control channel and the status feedback channelopen, and then performing a next step.
 6. The remote control method forthe washing machine according to claim 5, comprising step S433 beforestep S432, or after it is determined in step S432 that the motor of thewashing machine runs normally, step S433 comprising: obtaining thestatus information of the drying device of the washing machine,determining whether the drying device runs normally; and if the dryingdevice runs abnormally, cutting off the control channel, and keeping thestatus feedback channel open; and if the drying device runs normally,keeping the control channel and the status feedback channel open, andthen performing a next step.
 7. The remote control method for thewashing machine according to claim 3 comprising step S404 after it isdetermined in step S403 that the status information matches the presetinformation by which the mobile terminal remotely controls the washingmachine, and step S404 comprising: obtaining the control instructionsent by the mobile terminal to the washing machine.
 8. The remotecontrol method for the washing machine according to claim 7, comprisingstep S405 after step S404, step S405 comprising: determining whether thecontrol instruction matches the status information; and if the controlinstruction matches the status information, keeping the control channeland the status feedback channel open, and then performing a next step;and if the control instruction does not match the status information,cutting off the control channel, and keeping the status feedback channelopen.
 9. The remote control method for the washing machine according toclaim 8, wherein the step S405 comprises: S451: determining whether thecontrol instruction is a washing program; and if the control instructionis the washing program, performing S452; and if the control instructionis not the washing program, performing a next step; S452: obtaining thewater supply information, and determining whether a water supply is cutoff; and if the water supply is cut off, cutting off the controlchannel, and keeping the status feedback channel open; and if the watersupply is not cut off, keeping the control channel and the statusfeedback channel open, and then performing S453; and S453: obtaining thepower grid information, and determining whether the control instructionis an energy-saving mode; and if the control instruction is theenergy-saving mode, obtaining a washing time corresponding to eachwashing phase of the washing program based on the power gridinformation; and if the control instruction is not the energy-savingmode, keeping the control channel and the status feedback channel open,and operating the washing program normally.
 10. The remote controlmethod for the washing machine according to claim 1, wherein after thecontrol channel is cut off in the remote control method, reestablishinga control channel between the mobile terminal and the washing machineagain is not allowed.
 11. The remote control method for the washingmachine according to claim 2, wherein the status information of eachdevice of the washing machine comprises status information of a motor,and/or status information of a drying device.
 12. The remote controlmethod for the washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the remotecontrol method comprises the following steps: S401: establishing thecontrol channel and the status feedback channel between the mobileterminal and the washing machine; S402: obtaining the status informationof the washing machine; and S403: determining whether the statusinformation matches the preset information by which the mobile terminalremotely controls the washing machine; and if the status informationmatches the preset information, keeping the control channel and thestatus feedback channel open; and if the status information does notmatch the preset information, cutting off the control channel, andkeeping the status feedback channel open.
 13. The remote control methodfor the washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the step S403 ofdetermining whether the status information matches the presetinformation by which the mobile terminal remotely controls the washingmachine comprises: S431: detecting whether a door body of the washingmachine is locked; and if does not detect the door body is locked,cutting off the control channel, and keeping the status feedback channelopen; and if detects the door body is locked, performing S432; and S432:obtaining the status information of the motor of the washing machine,and determining whether the motor of the washing machine runs normally;and if the motor runs abnormally, cutting off the control channel, andkeeping the status feedback channel open; and if the motor runsnormally, keeping the control channel and the status feedback channelopen, and then performing a next step.
 14. The remote control method forthe washing machine according to claim 9, wherein the power gridinformation comprises a step tariff and power consumption trendinformation.